What is a credit card surcharge?

Surcharge fees have been hitting spenders’ pockets for almost a decade. So, why were they introduced and how can you avoid paying fees?

When a credit card surcharge is mentioned – or worse still, not mentioned – when you’re buying something, most people find the hairs on the back of their neck standing up in protest. When you add a surcharge to the price of your purchase, all of a sudden that cheap fare or bargain handbag doesn’t seem like so much of a good buy after all.

What is a credit card surcharge?

A credit card surcharge is an extra charge that consumers pay on top of the price of goods or services when they choose to pay with a credit card. The fee covers the cost to the merchant of accepting that means of payment, for example, the service fee that credit card companies charge merchants.

Until 2009, a “no surcharge rule” stopped retailers passing on fees for card transactions to their customers. The rule was dropped in 2009 after the Commerce Commission alleged that this was encouraging anti-competitive arrangements.

Surcharges were introduced to provide more transparency on the credit card companies’ fees.

What do credit card surcharges usually cost?

Some retailers may charge percentage-based surcharges of up to 2%, while others charge a flat fee. These fees can work out to be a much higher percentage of the payment. For example, if a retailer charges a flat fee of $2 on a $20 purchase, this adds up to a 10% surcharge.

Want more finance tips?

Sign up for free to receive more news and guides, straight to your inbox.

Being aware of credit and debit card surcharges is your best protection to ensure you don’t pay more than you need to. It is always worth doing your research so that you won’t be caught out by any unexpected credit card fees.